Methods and systems to intelligently and dynamically transform an end user device to operate as a server and/or an access point for one or more services

ABSTRACT

Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, obtaining, for each of a plurality of mobile communication devices in a physical vicinity of one another, a respective operational capability; selecting, from the plurality of mobile communication devices, first and second mobile communication devices, the first and second mobile communication devices being selected based at least in part upon a determination that a first operational capability of the first mobile communication device is greater than a second operational capability of the second mobile communication device; engaging in wireless communications with the first mobile communication device, a service being provided to the first mobile communication device via the wireless communications; sending instructions to the first mobile communication device, the instructions including an identifier of the second mobile communication device, the instructions indicating the second operational capability of the second mobile communication device, the instructions facilitating a converting by the first mobile communication device of one or more aspects of the service into another form usable by the second mobile communication device in accordance with the second operational capability of the second mobile communication device, the one or more aspects of the service not being capable of working as well on the second mobile communication device in an absence of the converting, and the instructions facilitating a wireless transmission by the first mobile communication device to the second mobile communication device of the one or more aspects of the service in the another form usable by the second mobile communication device. Other embodiments are disclosed.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The subject disclosure relates to methods and systems to intelligentlyand dynamically transform an end user device to operate as a serverand/or an access point (AP) for one or more services. In variousspecific examples, provided are methods and systems to intelligently anddynamically transform 6th generation (6G) end user devices as serversand/or access points for services through a RAN Intelligent Controller(RIC).

BACKGROUND

As each generation of wireless communication technology (e.g., cellularwireless communications) is deployed, more and more advanced servicesare made available by the network to the end user devices. Theseadvanced services then very often in turn require greater and greaterperformance capabilities on the part of the end user devices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are notnecessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limitingembodiment of a communication network in accordance with various aspectsdescribed herein.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limitingembodiment of a system (which can function fully or partially within thecommunication network of FIG. 1) in accordance with various aspectsdescribed herein.

FIG. 2B is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limitingembodiment of a system (which can function fully or partially within thecommunication network of FIG. 1) in accordance with various aspectsdescribed herein.

FIG. 2C depicts an illustrative embodiment of a method in accordancewith various aspects described herein.

FIG. 2D depicts an illustrative embodiment of a method in accordancewith various aspects described herein.

FIG. 2E depicts an illustrative embodiment of a method in accordancewith various aspects described herein.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limitingembodiment of a virtualized communication network in accordance withvarious aspects described herein.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example, non-limiting embodiment of acomputing environment in accordance with various aspects describedherein.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an example, non-limiting embodiment of amobile network platform in accordance with various aspects describedherein.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an example, non-limiting embodiment of acommunication device in accordance with various aspects describedherein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject disclosure describes, among other things, illustrativeembodiments for sharing of services between two or more interconnectedmobile end user devices (e.g., via processing of services on one mobileend user device and sending therefrom (to another mobile end userdevice) information for executing a subset of the services). Otherembodiments are described in the subject disclosure.

One or more aspects of the subject disclosure include instructing onemobile device (based upon location and/or operating capabilities of theone mobile device) to communicate with another mobile device (based uponlocation and/or operating capabilities of the another) mobile device.

One or more aspects of the subject disclosure include instructing onemobile device (based upon location and/or operating capabilities of theone mobile device) to form an ad hoc wireless network with anothermobile device (based upon location and/or operating capabilities of theanother mobile device).

One or more aspects of the subject disclosure include instructing onemobile device (based upon location and/or operating capabilities of theone mobile device) to act as an access point for another mobile device(based upon location and/or operating capabilities of the another mobiledevice).

As described herein, there are wireless services (such as, for example,immersive services) being deployed that require more powerful end userdevices than are widely available. Even though many end user devicestoday are more powerful than computers of only a few years ago, many ofsuch current end user devices nevertheless lag behind newer complexservices in terms of meeting performance requirements. Variousembodiments provide mechanisms to place certain operating capabilities(e.g., as found in one or more high-end, high-performance end userdevices) at the edge of the network. These high-end, high-performanceend user device(s) can be used to compensate for the performanceshortcomings of one or more lower-end, lower-performance end userdevices that are in the vicinity of the higher-end, higher-performanceend user device(s).

Referring now to FIG. 1, a block diagram is shown illustrating anexample, non-limiting embodiment of a system 100 in accordance withvarious aspects described herein. For example, system 100 can facilitatein whole or in part sharing of services between two or moreinterconnected mobile end user devices (e.g., via processing of serviceson one mobile end user device and sending therefrom (to another mobileend user device) information for executing a subset of the services). Inparticular, a communications network 125 is presented for providingbroadband access 110 to a plurality of data terminals 114 via accessterminal 112, wireless access 120 to a plurality of mobile devices 124and vehicle 126 via base station or access point 122, voice access 130to a plurality of telephony devices 134, via switching device 132 and/ormedia access 140 to a plurality of audio/video display devices 144 viamedia terminal 142. In addition, communication network 125 is coupled toone or more content sources 175 of audio, video, graphics, text and/orother media. While broadband access 110, wireless access 120, voiceaccess 130 and media access 140 are shown separately, one or more ofthese forms of access can be combined to provide multiple accessservices to a single client device (e.g., mobile devices 124 can receivemedia content via media terminal 142, data terminal 114 can be providedvoice access via switching device 132, and so on).

The communications network 125 includes a plurality of network elements(NE) 150, 152, 154, 156, etc. for facilitating the broadband access 110,wireless access 120, voice access 130, media access 140 and/or thedistribution of content from content sources 175. The communicationsnetwork 125 can include a circuit switched or packet switched network, avoice over Internet protocol (VoIP) network, Internet protocol (IP)network, a cable network, a passive or active optical network, a 4G, 5G,or higher generation wireless access network, WIMAX network,UltraWideband network, personal area network or other wireless accessnetwork, a broadcast satellite network and/or other communicationsnetwork.

In various embodiments, the access terminal 112 can include a digitalsubscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM), cable modem terminationsystem (CMTS), optical line terminal (OLT) and/or other access terminal.The data terminals 114 can include personal computers, laptop computers,netbook computers, tablets or other computing devices along with digitalsubscriber line (DSL) modems, data over coax service interfacespecification (DOCSIS) modems or other cable modems, a wireless modemsuch as a 4G, 5G, or higher generation modem, an optical modem and/orother access devices.

In various embodiments, the base station or access point 122 can includea 4G, 5G, or higher generation base station, an access point thatoperates via an 802.11 standard such as 802.11n, 802.11ac or otherwireless access terminal. The mobile devices 124 can include mobilephones, e-readers, tablets, phablets, wireless modems, and/or othermobile computing devices.

In various embodiments, the switching device 132 can include a privatebranch exchange or central office switch, a media services gateway, VoIPgateway or other gateway device and/or other switching device. Thetelephony devices 134 can include traditional telephones (with orwithout a terminal adapter), VoIP telephones and/or other telephonydevices.

In various embodiments, the media terminal 142 can include a cablehead-end or other TV head-end, a satellite receiver, gateway or othermedia terminal 142. The display devices 144 can include televisions withor without a set top box, personal computers and/or other displaydevices.

In various embodiments, the content sources 175 include broadcasttelevision and radio sources, video on demand platforms and streamingvideo and audio services platforms, one or more content data networks,data servers, web servers and other content servers, and/or othersources of media.

In various embodiments, the communications network 125 can includewired, optical and/or wireless links and the network elements 150, 152,154, 156, etc. can include service switching points, signal transferpoints, service control points, network gateways, media distributionhubs, servers, firewalls, routers, edge devices, switches and othernetwork nodes for routing and controlling communications traffic overwired, optical and wireless links as part of the Internet and otherpublic networks as well as one or more private networks, for managingsubscriber access, for billing and network management and for supportingother network functions.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating an example, non-limitingembodiment of a system 200 (which can function fully or partially withinthe communication network of FIG. 1) in accordance with various aspectsdescribed herein. As seen in this FIG. 2A, Network 201 (which cancomprise, for example, a cellular communications network) can be inbi-directional wireless communication (via one or more access points,base stations, or the like) with networked grid 203 (in this example,comprising four mobile devices), with networked grid 204 (in thisexample, comprising two mobile devices), with networked grid 205 (inthis example, comprising five mobile devices), and with networked grid207 (in this example, comprising four mobile devices). Further, as seenin this example, each of networked grid 203, 204, 205 is located at asports stadium 202 (at which respective users of the mobile devices arelocated) and networked grid 207 is located in a vehicle 206 (such as acar in which respective users of the mobile devices are located). In oneexample, two or more mobile devices of networked grid 203 cancommunicate with each other via an ad hoc network). In another example,the mobile devices of networked grid 204 can communicate with each othervia an ad hoc network). In another example, two or more mobile devicesof networked grid 205 can communicate with each other via an ad hocnetwork). In another example, two or more mobile devices of networkedgrid 207 can communicate with each other via an ad hoc network). Ofcourse, while a certain number of mobile devices are shown (in thisexample) in each of networked grids 203, 204, 205, 207, any desirednumber of devices can be supported in each networked grid. Further,while a certain number of networked grids are shown (in this example)any desired number of networked grids can be supported.

Still referring to FIG. 2A, in one example, Network 201 can communicatewith one of the mobile devices of networked grid 203, wherein thatmobile device then shares service(s) with the other mobile devices ofnetworked grid 203. In another example, Network 201 can communicate withone of the mobile devices of networked grid 204, wherein that mobiledevice then shares service(s) with the other mobile device of networkedgrid 204. In another example, Network 201 can communicate with one ofthe mobile devices of networked grid 205, wherein that mobile devicethen shares service(s) with the other mobile devices of networked grid205. In another example, Network 201 can communicate with one of themobile devices of networked grid 207, wherein that mobile device thenshares service(s) with the other mobile devices of networked grid 207.

Referring now to FIG. 2B, this is a block diagram illustrating anexample, non-limiting embodiment of a system 250 (which can functionfully or partially within the communication network of FIG. 1) inaccordance with various aspects described herein. As described herein,system 250 provides a plurality of Micro-services 251A, 251B, 251C.Still referring to FIG. 2B, it is seen that Micro-service 251A is inbi-directional communication (via the Infrastructure) with Database 252.Further, Micro-service 251B is in bi-directional communication (via theInfrastructure) with Database 252 and Micro-service 251C is inbi-directional communication (via the Infrastructure) with Database 252.The Database 252 can include, for example, separate storage areas (e.g.,each associated with a respective one of Micro-service 251A,Micro-service 251B and Micro-service 251C). Further, Open NetworkAutomation Platform (ONAP) 256 is in bi-directional communication withthe Infrastructure (and thus, each of Micro-service 251A, Micro-service251B, Micro-service 251C and Database 252). Further, the Infrastructurecan facilitate network Access 257. Moreover, the system 250 can includeContent 253. Further, the system 250 can include certain network corefunctions (e.g., 5G network core functions). In one example, the system250 can include Session Management Function for signaling (SMF) 254. Inanother example, the system 250 can include a user plane function (UPF)255 for data forwarding in the core network.

In one example, system 250 can form all or part of Network 201 of FIG.2A in order to provide functionality to enable sharing of service(s)between two or more interconnected mobile end user devices such asshown, for example, in FIG. 2A. In one specific example, system 250 canprovide functionality to enable in whole or in part processing ofservice(s) on one mobile end user device and sending therefrom (toanother mobile end user device) information for executing a subset ofthe services.

Referring now to FIG. 2C, various steps of a method 2100 according to anembodiment are shown. As seen in this FIG. 2C, step 2102 comprisesobtaining, for each of a plurality of mobile communication devices in aphysical vicinity of one another, a respective operational capability.Next, step 2104 comprises selecting, from the plurality of mobilecommunication devices, a first mobile communication device and a secondmobile communication device, the first mobile communication device andthe second mobile communication device being selected based at least inpart upon a determination that a first operational capability of thefirst mobile communication device is greater than a second operationalcapability of the second mobile communication device. Next, step 2106comprises engaging in wireless communications with the first mobilecommunication device, a service being provided to the first mobilecommunication device via the wireless communications. Next, step 2108comprises sending instructions to the first mobile communication device,the instructions including an identifier of the second mobilecommunication device with which the first mobile communication device isto communicate, the instructions indicating the second operationalcapability of the second mobile communication device, the instructionsfacilitating a processing by the first mobile communication device, theprocessing by the first mobile communication device comprising aconverting of one or more aspects of the service into another formusable by the second mobile communication device in accordance with thesecond operational capability of the second mobile communication device,the one or more aspects of the service not being capable of working aswell on the second mobile communication device in an absence of theconverting, and the instructions facilitating a wireless transmission bythe first mobile communication device to the second mobile communicationdevice of the one or more aspects of the service in the another formusable by the second mobile communication device.

While for purposes of simplicity of explanation, the respectiveprocesses are shown and described as a series of blocks in FIG. 2C, itis to be understood and appreciated that the claimed subject matter isnot limited by the order of the blocks, as some blocks may occur indifferent orders and/or concurrently with other blocks from what isdepicted and described herein. Moreover, not all illustrated blocks maybe required to implement the methods described herein.

Referring now to FIG. 2D, various steps of a method 2200 according to anembodiment are shown. As seen in this FIG. 2D, step 2202 comprisesengaging, by a mobile communication device including a processing systemhaving a processor, in wireless communications with a network. Next,step 2204 comprises receiving by the mobile communication device, viathe wireless communications, instructions from the network, theinstructions including an identifier of another mobile communicationdevice within a threshold distance of the mobile communication devicewith which the mobile communication device is to communicate, the mobilecommunication device having an operational capability, the instructionsindicating another operational capability of the another mobilecommunication device, and the another operational capability having beendetermined as being lower than the operational capability. Next, step2206 comprises engaging, by the mobile communication device, in aservice provided via the wireless communications. Next, step 2208comprises executing by the mobile communication device, responsive tothe instructions, first processing related to the service, the firstprocessing resulting in one or more aspects of the service beingperformed at the mobile communication device. Next, step 2210 comprisesexecuting by the mobile communication device, responsive to theinstructions, second processing related to the service, the secondprocessing comprising a converting of the one or more aspects of theservice into another form usable by the another mobile communicationdevice in accordance with the another operational capability of theanother mobile communication device, the one or more aspects of theservice not otherwise being usable by the another mobile communicationdevice in an absence of the converting. Next, step 2212 comprisesresponsive to the instructions, wirelessly transmitting by the mobilecommunication device to the another mobile communication device the oneor more aspects of the service in the another form usable by the anothermobile communication device.

While for purposes of simplicity of explanation, the respectiveprocesses are shown and described as a series of blocks in FIG. 2D, itis to be understood and appreciated that the claimed subject matter isnot limited by the order of the blocks, as some blocks may occur indifferent orders and/or concurrently with other blocks from what isdepicted and described herein. Moreover, not all illustrated blocks maybe required to implement the methods described herein.

Referring now to FIG. 2E, various steps of a method 2300 according to anembodiment are shown. As seen in this FIG. 2E, step 2302 comprisesreceiving (by a first mobile communication device) from a network, viawireless communications, instructions including a plurality ofidentifiers, one identifier of the plurality of identifiers being of asecond mobile communication device within a threshold distance of thefirst mobile communication device with which the first mobilecommunication device is to communicate, another identifier of theplurality of identifiers being of a third mobile communication devicewithin the threshold distance of the first mobile communication devicewith which the first mobile communication device is to communicate, thefirst mobile communication device having a first operational capability,the instructions indicating a second operational capability of thesecond mobile communication device, the second operational capabilityhaving been determined as being lower than the first operationalcapability, the instructions indicating a third operational capabilityof the third mobile communication device, the third operationalcapability having been determined as being lower than the firstoperational capability. Next, step 2304 comprises engaging (by the firstmobile communication device) in a service provided by the network viathe wireless communications. Next, step 2306 comprises performing (bythe first mobile communication device), responsive to the instructions,first processing related to the service, the first processing resultingin one or more aspects of the service being performed at the firstmobile communication device. Next, step 2308 comprises performing (bythe first mobile communication device), responsive to the instructions,second processing related to the service, the second processingcomprising a first converting of the one or more aspects of the serviceinto a first other form usable by the second mobile communication devicein accordance with the second operational capability of the secondmobile communication device, the one or more aspects of the service nototherwise being usable by the second communication device in an absenceof the first converting. Next, step 2310 comprises performing (by thefirst mobile communication device), responsive to the instructions,third processing related to the service, the third processing comprisinga second converting of the one or more aspects of the service into asecond other form usable by the third mobile communication device inaccordance with the third operational capability of the third mobilecommunication device, the one or more aspects of the service nototherwise being usable by the third communication device in an absenceof the second converting. Next, step 2312 comprises facilitating (by thefirst mobile communication device) formation of an ad hoc wirelessnetwork with the second mobile communication device and the third mobilecommunication device. Next, step 2314 comprises transmitting (by thefirst mobile communication device) via the ad hoc wireless network, tothe second mobile communication device, first information to facilitateperformance by the second mobile communication device of the one or moreaspects of the service in the first other form usable by the secondmobile communication device. Next, step 2316 comprises transmitting (bythe first mobile communication device) via the ad hoc wireless network,to the third mobile communication device, second information tofacilitate performance by the third mobile communication device of theone or more aspects of the service in the second other form usable bythe third mobile communication device.

While for purposes of simplicity of explanation, the respectiveprocesses are shown and described as a series of blocks in FIG. 2E, itis to be understood and appreciated that the claimed subject matter isnot limited by the order of the blocks, as some blocks may occur indifferent orders and/or concurrently with other blocks from what isdepicted and described herein. Moreover, not all illustrated blocks maybe required to implement the methods described herein.

As described herein, various embodiments can provide mechanisms tointelligently and dynamically transform one or more end user devices(e.g., 6G end user devices) to function as one or more servers and/orone or more access points (APs) for shared services through a RIC.

As described herein, various embodiments can apply to one or moregenerations of wireless communication systems prior to 6G (e.g., 4Gand/or 5G) and/or to one or more generations of wireless communicationsystems subsequent to 6G (e.g., 7G and/or any subsequent generation(s)).

According to various embodiments, in an active connected community amassive amount of information is produced and gathered for individualgroup and/or community benefits. According to various embodiments, thesebenefits can include: (a) ability to collect information about any giventime and/or incident by meshing public and private data; (b) ability togather information by enabling a dynamic and intelligent security andpolicy control; (c) ability to engage more users in any given situationand/or create more demand and/or create new users for services by givingthem an ability to interact with the service(s) before subscribing;and/or (d) any combination thereof.

As described herein, in various generations of wireless service (e.g.,6G) certain categories of end user devices/UEs can have multiplecapabilities. For example, in one embodiment such an end user device/UEcan act as a regular smart phone and/or can become a wireless AP. In oneembodiment, the subscriber to a service can share the content and/orapplication of the service with one or more users by creatinginfrastructure connectivity (such as wireless one-to-many connections)with one or more other devices (e.g., with the device of the subscriberacting as a local media server). In one specific example, the device ofthe subscriber can provide control of one or more media streams to oneor more other devices in the “networked grid”. In another specificexample, the device of the subscriber can obtain one or moremicroservices (e.g., from MEC/RIC) and share a similar experience withthe device(s) on a given “networked grid”.

In other embodiments, a service provides a probability and/orstatistical extrapolation of an event (e.g., a live game or sportingevent) and one user can subscribe to the service (and/or application).That user can share the outcome and/or interaction of the service(and/or application) with others. This can provide an interactivemechanism in a “networked grid”, creating a large interactiveenvironment for the participants in a game or show gathering. In anotherexample, this can provide an interactive mechanism in a group of“networked grids” that can be loosely connected in the location creatinga large interactive environment for the participants in a game or showgathering.

In another embodiment, the engaging in the wireless communications withthe network can be via an access point, a base station, or anycombination thereof.

In another embodiment, one mobile communication device can function asan access point of an ad hoc wireless network for communicating with oneor more other mobile communication devices.

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms to create agrid/group of users in situations such as a game stadium. In oneexample, a group of devices are connected to each other on an Ad-Hocnetwork. The devices can be controlled, for example, by a New Radio RICto optimize interconnection of the devices. The optimization can becarried out using artificial intelligence (AI) in order to interconnectthese devices into networked grids of devices which can interact witheach other and at the same time give an interactive and unique view(e.g., of the game) on each of the devices. In one example, a system canprovide interactive predictive voting (e.g., voting as to what is mostlikely to happen for example within the next 5-10 min of the game). Inanother example, different perspectives and/or views of the game fromdifferent angles can be provided to different devices participating in agroup.

Various embodiments can utilize edge capabilities and create a uniquegrid/group of users (e.g., in a large gathering such as a stadium or ina smaller gathering such as a group of users in a car).

Various embodiments can provide unique and powerful experiences, such asinteractive services that can be utilized without requiringtop-of-the-line end user devices that have cutting-edge performance.

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms for runningan application and/or a second network at the edge of a first networksuch that some less powerful user equipment can obtain various services(and/or results of services).

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms forfacilitating one or more ad-hoc networks (e.g., for crowdsourcing).

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms for allowingone or more people to opt-in and experience what one or more otherpeople are experiencing. In various specific examples, voting and/orother interaction can provide an immersive experience. In variousspecific examples, users can play games, ask questions and/or interactwith each other.

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms forfacilitating use of a first user device as a “master” (or proxy) accesspoint for other device(s).

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms forfacilitating subscription to a service by a first user, wherein thefirst user can then give the service (and/or part of the service and/orresults of the service) to one or more other users as sub-users. Invarious specific examples, a given group (e.g., a given user and set ofone or more sub-users) can be a closed group (e.g., having similarinterest(s) and/or being subject to opt-in). In one specific example, afirst (e.g., more powerful) user device can convert a video having afirst form (e.g., a first resolution) into a converted video having asecond form (e.g., a second (lower) resolution), wherein the video inthe second form can be sent to a second (e.g., less powerful) userdevice (e.g., for display by the second user device). In anotherspecific example, a first (e.g. more powerful) user device can runthereon a service having a first form (e.g., interactivity) and providean outcome as a second form, wherein the outcome (the second form inthis example) can be sent to a second (e.g., less powerful) user device(e.g., for display by the second user device).

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms forfacilitating sharing of services by one device (e.g., a more powerful 6Gdevice) with one or more other devices (e.g., one or more less powerfuldevices).

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms forfacilitating the running of an application at the edge of a network,wherein results of the running of the application can be sent to one ormore user equipment devices. In various specific examples, video (and/orother data) can be processed at the edge of the network and then theprocessed video (and/or other data) can be sent to the screen(s) of oneor more user equipment devices. In various specific examples, video(and/or other data) can be processed at the edge of the network and thenthe processed video (and/or other data) can be sent to a master device(e.g., a high-performance user equipment device), wherein the masterdevice then sends the processed video (and/or other data) to one or moreother (lower-performance) user equipment devices.

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms forfacilitating a sharing of a subscription by a master device (e.g., amore capable device that can perform more functions than a lower-enddevice) with one or more lower-end devices.

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms forcoordinating groups of devices (in one specific example, a MAC cancoordinate a group of devices).

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms forfacilitating sharing (e.g., indirectly) of a specific subscription by adevice in a vehicle (e.g., a head unit) with one or more other devices(e.g., user equipment devices) in the vehicle.

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms for not onlygiving access to a network but for also (or instead) rendering one ormore services.

As described herein, various embodiments provide mechanisms for mergingone or more views (e.g., in a MAC, in an end user device, and/or inanother device) to make another view (e.g., a 180-degree view or a360-degree view). In various specific examples, the merged view can be aview of a game in a stadium.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a block diagram 300 is shown illustrating anexample, non-limiting embodiment of a virtualized communication networkin accordance with various aspects described herein. In particular avirtualized communication network is presented that can be used toimplement some or all of the subsystems and functions of system 100,some or all of the subsystems and functions of system 200, some or allof the subsystems and functions of system 250, and/or some or all of thefunctions of methods 2100, 2200 and/or 2300. For example, virtualizedcommunication network 300 can facilitate in whole or in part sharing ofservices between two or more interconnected mobile end user devices(e.g., via processing of services on one mobile end user device andsending therefrom (to another mobile end user device) information forexecuting a subset of the services).

In particular, a cloud networking architecture is shown that leveragescloud technologies and supports rapid innovation and scalability via atransport layer 350, a virtualized network function cloud 325 and/or oneor more cloud computing environments 375. In various embodiments, thiscloud networking architecture is an open architecture that leveragesapplication programming interfaces (APIs); reduces complexity fromservices and operations; supports more nimble business models; andrapidly and seamlessly scales to meet evolving customer requirementsincluding traffic growth, diversity of traffic types, and diversity ofperformance and reliability expectations.

In contrast to traditional network elements—which are typicallyintegrated to perform a single function, the virtualized communicationnetwork employs virtual network elements (VNEs) 330, 332, 334, etc. thatperform some or all of the functions of network elements 150, 152, 154,156, etc. For example, the network architecture can provide a substrateof networking capability, often called Network Function VirtualizationInfrastructure (NFVI) or simply infrastructure that is capable of beingdirected with software and Software Defined Networking (SDN) protocolsto perform a broad variety of network functions and services. Thisinfrastructure can include several types of substrates. The most typicaltype of substrate being servers that support Network FunctionVirtualization (NFV), followed by packet forwarding capabilities basedon generic computing resources, with specialized network technologiesbrought to bear when general purpose processors or general purposeintegrated circuit devices offered by merchants (referred to herein asmerchant silicon) are not appropriate. In this case, communicationservices can be implemented as cloud-centric workloads.

As an example, a traditional network element 150 (shown in FIG. 1), suchas an edge router can be implemented via a VNE 330 composed of NFVsoftware modules, merchant silicon, and associated controllers. Thesoftware can be written so that increasing workload consumes incrementalresources from a common resource pool, and moreover so that it'selastic: so the resources are only consumed when needed. In a similarfashion, other network elements such as other routers, switches, edgecaches, and middle-boxes are instantiated from the common resource pool.Such sharing of infrastructure across a broad set of uses makes planningand growing infrastructure easier to manage.

In an embodiment, the transport layer 350 includes fiber, cable, wiredand/or wireless transport elements, network elements and interfaces toprovide broadband access 110, wireless access 120, voice access 130,media access 140 and/or access to content sources 175 for distributionof content to any or all of the access technologies. In particular, insome cases a network element needs to be positioned at a specific place,and this allows for less sharing of common infrastructure. Other times,the network elements have specific physical layer adapters that cannotbe abstracted or virtualized, and might require special DSP code andanalog front-ends (AFEs) that do not lend themselves to implementationas VNEs 330, 332 or 334. These network elements can be included intransport layer 350.

The virtualized network function cloud 325 interfaces with the transportlayer 350 to provide the VNEs 330, 332, 334, etc. to provide specificNFVs. In particular, the virtualized network function cloud 325leverages cloud operations, applications, and architectures to supportnetworking workloads. The virtualized network elements 330, 332 and 334can employ network function software that provides either a one-for-onemapping of traditional network element function or alternately somecombination of network functions designed for cloud computing. Forexample, VNEs 330, 332 and 334 can include route reflectors, domain namesystem (DNS) servers, and dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP)servers, system architecture evolution (SAE) and/or mobility managemententity (MME) gateways, broadband network gateways, IP edge routers forIP-VPN, Ethernet and other services, load balancers, distributers andother network elements. Because these elements don't typically need toforward large amounts of traffic, their workload can be distributedacross a number of servers—each of which adds a portion of thecapability, and overall which creates an elastic function with higheravailability than its former monolithic version. These virtual networkelements 330, 332, 334, etc. can be instantiated and managed using anorchestration approach similar to those used in cloud compute services.

The cloud computing environments 375 can interface with the virtualizednetwork function cloud 325 via APIs that expose functional capabilitiesof the VNEs 330, 332, 334, etc. to provide the flexible and expandedcapabilities to the virtualized network function cloud 325. Inparticular, network workloads may have applications distributed acrossthe virtualized network function cloud 325 and cloud computingenvironment 375 and in the commercial cloud, or might simply orchestrateworkloads supported entirely in NFV infrastructure from these thirdparty locations.

Turning now to FIG. 4, there is illustrated a block diagram of acomputing environment in accordance with various aspects describedherein. In order to provide additional context for various embodimentsof the embodiments described herein, FIG. 4 and the following discussionare intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitablecomputing environment 400 in which the various embodiments of thesubject disclosure can be implemented. In particular, computingenvironment 400 can be used in the implementation of network elements150, 152, 154, 156, access terminal 112, base station or access point122, switching device 132, media terminal 142, and/or VNEs 330, 332,334, etc. Each of these devices can be implemented viacomputer-executable instructions that can run on one or more computers,and/or in combination with other program modules and/or as a combinationof hardware and software. For example, computing environment 400 canfacilitate in whole or in part sharing of services between two or moreinterconnected mobile end user devices (e.g., via processing of serviceson one mobile end user device and sending therefrom (to another mobileend user device) information for executing a subset of the services).Generally, program modules comprise routines, programs, components, datastructures, etc., that perform particular tasks or implement particularabstract data types. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciatethat the methods can be practiced with other computer systemconfigurations, comprising single-processor or multiprocessor computersystems, minicomputers, mainframe computers, as well as personalcomputers, hand-held computing devices, microprocessor-based orprogrammable consumer electronics, and the like, each of which can beoperatively coupled to one or more associated devices.

As used herein, a processing circuit includes one or more processors aswell as other application specific circuits such as an applicationspecific integrated circuit, digital logic circuit, state machine,programmable gate array or other circuit that processes input signals ordata and that produces output signals or data in response thereto. Itshould be noted that while any functions and features described hereinin association with the operation of a processor could likewise beperformed by a processing circuit.

The illustrated embodiments of the embodiments herein can be alsopracticed in distributed computing environments where certain tasks areperformed by remote processing devices that are linked through acommunications network. In a distributed computing environment, programmodules can be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

Computing devices typically comprise a variety of media, which cancomprise computer-readable storage media and/or communications media,which two terms are used herein differently from one another as follows.Computer-readable storage media can be any available storage media thatcan be accessed by the computer and comprises both volatile andnonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example,and not limitation, computer-readable storage media can be implementedin connection with any method or technology for storage of informationsuch as computer-readable instructions, program modules, structured dataor unstructured data.

Computer-readable storage media can comprise, but are not limited to,random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), electricallyerasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or othermemory technology, compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM), digitalversatile disk (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes,magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devicesor other tangible and/or non-transitory media which can be used to storedesired information. In this regard, the terms “tangible” or“non-transitory” herein as applied to storage, memory orcomputer-readable media, are to be understood to exclude onlypropagating transitory signals per se as modifiers and do not relinquishrights to all standard storage, memory or computer-readable media thatare not only propagating transitory signals per se.

Computer-readable storage media can be accessed by one or more local orremote computing devices, e.g., via access requests, queries or otherdata retrieval protocols, for a variety of operations with respect tothe information stored by the medium.

Communications media typically embody computer-readable instructions,data structures, program modules or other structured or unstructureddata in a data signal such as a modulated data signal, e.g., a carrierwave or other transport mechanism, and comprises any informationdelivery or transport media. The term “modulated data signal” or signalsrefers to a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set orchanged in such a manner as to encode information in one or moresignals. By way of example, and not limitation, communication mediacomprise wired media, such as a wired network or direct-wiredconnection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared and otherwireless media.

With reference again to FIG. 4, the example environment can comprise acomputer 402, the computer 402 comprising a processing unit 404, asystem memory 406 and a system bus 408. The system bus 408 couplessystem components including, but not limited to, the system memory 406to the processing unit 404. The processing unit 404 can be any ofvarious commercially available processors. Dual microprocessors andother multiprocessor architectures can also be employed as theprocessing unit 404.

The system bus 408 can be any of several types of bus structure that canfurther interconnect to a memory bus (with or without a memorycontroller), a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety ofcommercially available bus architectures. The system memory 406comprises ROM 410 and RAM 412. A basic input/output system (BIOS) can bestored in a non-volatile memory such as ROM, erasable programmable readonly memory (EPROM), EEPROM, which BIOS contains the basic routines thathelp to transfer information between elements within the computer 402,such as during startup. The RAM 412 can also comprise a high-speed RAMsuch as static RAM for caching data.

The computer 402 further comprises an internal hard disk drive (HDD) 414(e.g., EIDE, SATA), which internal HDD 414 can also be configured forexternal use in a suitable chassis (not shown), a magnetic floppy diskdrive (FDD) 416, (e.g., to read from or write to a removable diskette418) and an optical disk drive 420, (e.g., reading a CD-ROM disk 422 or,to read from or write to other high capacity optical media such as theDVD). The HDD 414, magnetic FDD 416 and optical disk drive 420 can beconnected to the system bus 408 by a hard disk drive interface 424, amagnetic disk drive interface 426 and an optical drive interface 428,respectively. The hard disk drive interface 424 for external driveimplementations comprises at least one or both of Universal Serial Bus(USB) and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 1394interface technologies. Other external drive connection technologies arewithin contemplation of the embodiments described herein.

The drives and their associated computer-readable storage media providenonvolatile storage of data, data structures, computer-executableinstructions, and so forth. For the computer 402, the drives and storagemedia accommodate the storage of any data in a suitable digital format.Although the description of computer-readable storage media above refersto a hard disk drive (HDD), a removable magnetic diskette, and aremovable optical media such as a CD or DVD, it should be appreciated bythose skilled in the art that other types of storage media which arereadable by a computer, such as zip drives, magnetic cassettes, flashmemory cards, cartridges, and the like, can also be used in the exampleoperating environment, and further, that any such storage media cancontain computer-executable instructions for performing the methodsdescribed herein.

A number of program modules can be stored in the drives and RAM 412,comprising an operating system 430, one or more application programs432, other program modules 434 and program data 436. All or portions ofthe operating system, applications, modules, and/or data can also becached in the RAM 412. The systems and methods described herein can beimplemented utilizing various commercially available operating systemsor combinations of operating systems.

A user can enter commands and information into the computer 402 throughone or more wired/wireless input devices, e.g., a keyboard 438 and apointing device, such as a mouse 440. Other input devices (not shown)can comprise a microphone, an infrared (IR) remote control, a joystick,a game pad, a stylus pen, touch screen or the like. These and otherinput devices are often connected to the processing unit 404 through aninput device interface 442 that can be coupled to the system bus 408,but can be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallel port, anIEEE 1394 serial port, a game port, a universal serial bus (USB) port,an IR interface, etc.

A monitor 444 or other type of display device can be also connected tothe system bus 408 via an interface, such as a video adapter 446. Itwill also be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, a monitor 444can also be any display device (e.g., another computer having a display,a smart phone, a tablet computer, etc.) for receiving displayinformation associated with computer 402 via any communication means,including via the Internet and cloud-based networks. In addition to themonitor 444, a computer typically comprises other peripheral outputdevices (not shown), such as speakers, printers, etc.

The computer 402 can operate in a networked environment using logicalconnections via wired and/or wireless communications to one or moreremote computers, such as a remote computer(s) 448. The remotecomputer(s) 448 can be a workstation, a server computer, a router, apersonal computer, portable computer, microprocessor-based entertainmentappliance, a peer device or other common network node, and typicallycomprises many or all of the elements described relative to the computer402, although, for purposes of brevity, only a remote memory/storagedevice 450 is illustrated. The logical connections depicted comprisewired/wireless connectivity to a local area network (LAN) 452 and/orlarger networks, e.g., a wide area network (WAN) 454. Such LAN and WANnetworking environments are commonplace in offices and companies, andfacilitate enterprise-wide computer networks, such as intranets, all ofwhich can connect to a global communications network, e.g., theInternet.

When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer 402 can beconnected to the LAN 452 through a wired and/or wireless communicationnetwork interface or adapter 456. The adapter 456 can facilitate wiredor wireless communication to the LAN 452, which can also comprise awireless AP disposed thereon for communicating with the adapter 456.

When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer 402 can comprisea modem 458 or can be connected to a communications server on the WAN454 or has other means for establishing communications over the WAN 454,such as by way of the Internet. The modem 458, which can be internal orexternal and a wired or wireless device, can be connected to the systembus 408 via the input device interface 442. In a networked environment,program modules depicted relative to the computer 402 or portionsthereof, can be stored in the remote memory/storage device 450. It willbe appreciated that the network connections shown are example and othermeans of establishing a communications link between the computers can beused.

The computer 402 can be operable to communicate with any wirelessdevices or entities operatively disposed in wireless communication,e.g., a printer, scanner, desktop and/or portable computer, portabledata assistant, communications satellite, any piece of equipment orlocation associated with a wirelessly detectable tag (e.g., a kiosk,news stand, restroom), and telephone. This can comprise WirelessFidelity (Wi-Fi) and BLUETOOTH® wireless technologies. Thus, thecommunication can be a predefined structure as with a conventionalnetwork or simply an ad hoc communication between at least two devices.

Wi-Fi can allow connection to the Internet from a couch at home, a bedin a hotel room or a conference room at work, without wires. Wi-Fi is awireless technology similar to that used in a cell phone that enablessuch devices, e.g., computers, to send and receive data indoors and out;anywhere within the range of a base station. Wi-Fi networks use radiotechnologies called IEEE 802.11 (a, b, g, n, ac, ag, etc.) to providesecure, reliable, fast wireless connectivity. A Wi-Fi network can beused to connect computers to each other, to the Internet, and to wirednetworks (which can use IEEE 802.3 or Ethernet). Wi-Fi networks operatein the unlicensed 2.4 and 5 GHz radio bands for example or with productsthat contain both bands (dual band), so the networks can providereal-world performance similar to the basic 10BaseT wired Ethernetnetworks used in many offices.

Turning now to FIG. 5, an embodiment 500 of a mobile network platform510 is shown that is an example of network elements 150, 152, 154, 156,and/or VNEs 330, 332, 334, etc. For example, platform 510 can facilitatein whole or in part sharing of services between two or moreinterconnected mobile end user devices (e.g., via processing of serviceson one mobile end user device and sending therefrom (to another mobileend user device) information for executing a subset of the services). Inone or more embodiments, the mobile network platform 510 can generateand receive signals transmitted and received by base stations or accesspoints such as base station or access point 122. Generally, mobilenetwork platform 510 can comprise components, e.g., nodes, gateways,interfaces, servers, or disparate platforms, that facilitate bothpacket-switched (PS) (e.g., internet protocol (IP), frame relay,asynchronous transfer mode (ATM)) and circuit-switched (CS) traffic(e.g., voice and data), as well as control generation for networkedwireless telecommunication. As a non-limiting example, mobile networkplatform 510 can be included in telecommunications carrier networks, andcan be considered carrier-side components as discussed elsewhere herein.Mobile network platform 510 comprises CS gateway node(s) 512 which caninterface CS traffic received from legacy networks like telephonynetwork(s) 540 (e.g., public switched telephone network (PSTN), orpublic land mobile network (PLMN)) or a signaling system #7 (SS7)network 560. CS gateway node(s) 512 can authorize and authenticatetraffic (e.g., voice) arising from such networks. Additionally, CSgateway node(s) 512 can access mobility, or roaming, data generatedthrough SS7 network 560; for instance, mobility data stored in a visitedlocation register (VLR), which can reside in memory 530. Moreover, CSgateway node(s) 512 interfaces CS-based traffic and signaling and PSgateway node(s) 518. As an example, in a 3GPP UMTS network, CS gatewaynode(s) 512 can be realized at least in part in gateway GPRS supportnode(s) (GGSN). It should be appreciated that functionality and specificoperation of CS gateway node(s) 512, PS gateway node(s) 518, and servingnode(s) 516, is provided and dictated by radio technology(ies) utilizedby mobile network platform 510 for telecommunication over a radio accessnetwork 520 with other devices, such as a radiotelephone 575.

In addition to receiving and processing CS-switched traffic andsignaling, PS gateway node(s) 518 can authorize and authenticatePS-based data sessions with served mobile devices. Data sessions cancomprise traffic, or content(s), exchanged with networks external to themobile network platform 510, like wide area network(s) (WANs) 550,enterprise network(s) 570, and service network(s) 580, which can beembodied in local area network(s) (LANs), can also be interfaced withmobile network platform 510 through PS gateway node(s) 518. It is to benoted that WANs 550 and enterprise network(s) 570 can embody, at leastin part, a service network(s) like IP multimedia subsystem (IMS). Basedon radio technology layer(s) available in technology resource(s) orradio access network 520, PS gateway node(s) 518 can generate packetdata protocol contexts when a data session is established; other datastructures that facilitate routing of packetized data also can begenerated. To that end, in an aspect, PS gateway node(s) 518 cancomprise a tunnel interface (e.g., tunnel termination gateway (TTG) in3GPP UMTS network(s) (not shown)) which can facilitate packetizedcommunication with disparate wireless network(s), such as Wi-Finetworks.

In embodiment 500, mobile network platform 510 also comprises servingnode(s) 516 that, based upon available radio technology layer(s) withintechnology resource(s) in the radio access network 520, convey thevarious packetized flows of data streams received through PS gatewaynode(s) 518. It is to be noted that for technology resource(s) that relyprimarily on CS communication, server node(s) can deliver trafficwithout reliance on PS gateway node(s) 518; for example, server node(s)can embody at least in part a mobile switching center. As an example, ina 3GPP UMTS network, serving node(s) 516 can be embodied in serving GPRSsupport node(s) (SGSN).

For radio technologies that exploit packetized communication, server(s)514 in mobile network platform 510 can execute numerous applicationsthat can generate multiple disparate packetized data streams or flows,and manage (e.g., schedule, queue, format . . . ) such flows. Suchapplication(s) can comprise add-on features to standard services (forexample, provisioning, billing, customer support . . . ) provided bymobile network platform 510. Data streams (e.g., content(s) that arepart of a voice call or data session) can be conveyed to PS gatewaynode(s) 518 for authorization/authentication and initiation of a datasession, and to serving node(s) 516 for communication thereafter. Inaddition to application server, server(s) 514 can comprise utilityserver(s), a utility server can comprise a provisioning server, anoperations and maintenance server, a security server that can implementat least in part a certificate authority and firewalls as well as othersecurity mechanisms, and the like. In an aspect, security server(s)secure communication served through mobile network platform 510 toensure network's operation and data integrity in addition toauthorization and authentication procedures that CS gateway node(s) 512and PS gateway node(s) 518 can enact. Moreover, provisioning server(s)can provision services from external network(s) like networks operatedby a disparate service provider; for instance, WAN 550 or GlobalPositioning System (GPS) network(s) (not shown). Provisioning server(s)can also provision coverage through networks associated to mobilenetwork platform 510 (e.g., deployed and operated by the same serviceprovider), such as the distributed antennas networks shown in FIG. 1(s)that enhance wireless service coverage by providing more networkcoverage.

It is to be noted that server(s) 514 can comprise one or more processorsconfigured to confer at least in part the functionality of mobilenetwork platform 510. To that end, the one or more processor can executecode instructions stored in memory 530, for example. It is should beappreciated that server(s) 514 can comprise a content manager, whichoperates in substantially the same manner as described hereinbefore.

In example embodiment 500, memory 530 can store information related tooperation of mobile network platform 510. Other operational informationcan comprise provisioning information of mobile devices served throughmobile network platform 510, subscriber databases; applicationintelligence, pricing schemes, e.g., promotional rates, flat-rateprograms, couponing campaigns; technical specification(s) consistentwith telecommunication protocols for operation of disparate radio, orwireless, technology layers; and so forth. Memory 530 can also storeinformation from at least one of telephony network(s) 540, WAN 550, SS7network 560, or enterprise network(s) 570. In an aspect, memory 530 canbe, for example, accessed as part of a data store component or as aremotely connected memory store.

In order to provide a context for the various aspects of the disclosedsubject matter, FIG. 5, and the following discussion, are intended toprovide a brief, general description of a suitable environment in whichthe various aspects of the disclosed subject matter can be implemented.While the subject matter has been described above in the general contextof computer-executable instructions of a computer program that runs on acomputer and/or computers, those skilled in the art will recognize thatthe disclosed subject matter also can be implemented in combination withother program modules. Generally, program modules comprise routines,programs, components, data structures, etc. that perform particulartasks and/or implement particular abstract data types.

Turning now to FIG. 6, an illustrative embodiment of a communicationdevice 600 is shown. The communication device 600 can serve as anillustrative embodiment of devices such as data terminals 114, mobiledevices 124, vehicle 126, display devices 144 or other client devicesfor communication via either communications network 125. For example,computing device 600 can facilitate in whole or in part sharing ofservices between two or more interconnected mobile end user devices(e.g., via processing of services on one mobile end user device andsending therefrom (to another mobile end user device) information forexecuting a subset of the services).

The communication device 600 can comprise a wireline and/or wirelesstransceiver 602 (herein transceiver 602), a user interface (UI) 604, apower supply 614, a location receiver 616, a motion sensor 618, anorientation sensor 620, and a controller 606 for managing operationsthereof. The transceiver 602 can support short-range or long-rangewireless access technologies such as Bluetooth®, ZigBee®, WiFi, DECT, orcellular communication technologies, just to mention a few (Bluetooth®and ZigBee® are trademarks registered by the Bluetooth® Special InterestGroup and the ZigBee® Alliance, respectively). Cellular technologies caninclude, for example, CDMA-1X, UMTS/HSDPA, GSM/GPRS, TDMA/EDGE, EV/DO,WiMAX, SDR, LTE, as well as other next generation wireless communicationtechnologies as they arise. The transceiver 602 can also be adapted tosupport circuit-switched wireline access technologies (such as PSTN),packet-switched wireline access technologies (such as TCP/IP, VoIP,etc.), and combinations thereof.

The UI 604 can include a depressible or touch-sensitive keypad 608 witha navigation mechanism such as a roller ball, a joystick, a mouse, or anavigation disk for manipulating operations of the communication device600. The keypad 608 can be an integral part of a housing assembly of thecommunication device 600 or an independent device operably coupledthereto by a tethered wireline interface (such as a USB cable) or awireless interface supporting for example Bluetooth®. The keypad 608 canrepresent a numeric keypad commonly used by phones, and/or a QWERTYkeypad with alphanumeric keys. The UI 604 can further include a display610 such as monochrome or color LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), OLED(Organic Light Emitting Diode) or other suitable display technology forconveying images to an end user of the communication device 600. In anembodiment where the display 610 is touch-sensitive, a portion or all ofthe keypad 608 can be presented by way of the display 610 withnavigation features.

The display 610 can use touch screen technology to also serve as a userinterface for detecting user input. As a touch screen display, thecommunication device 600 can be adapted to present a user interfacehaving graphical user interface (GUI) elements that can be selected by auser with a touch of a finger. The display 610 can be equipped withcapacitive, resistive or other forms of sensing technology to detect howmuch surface area of a user's finger has been placed on a portion of thetouch screen display. This sensing information can be used to controlthe manipulation of the GUI elements or other functions of the userinterface. The display 610 can be an integral part of the housingassembly of the communication device 600 or an independent devicecommunicatively coupled thereto by a tethered wireline interface (suchas a cable) or a wireless interface.

The UI 604 can also include an audio system 612 that utilizes audiotechnology for conveying low volume audio (such as audio heard inproximity of a human ear) and high volume audio (such as speakerphonefor hands free operation). The audio system 612 can further include amicrophone for receiving audible signals of an end user. The audiosystem 612 can also be used for voice recognition applications. The UI604 can further include an image sensor 613 such as a charged coupleddevice (CCD) camera for capturing still or moving images.

The power supply 614 can utilize common power management technologiessuch as replaceable and rechargeable batteries, supply regulationtechnologies, and/or charging system technologies for supplying energyto the components of the communication device 600 to facilitatelong-range or short-range portable communications. Alternatively, or incombination, the charging system can utilize external power sources suchas DC power supplied over a physical interface such as a USB port orother suitable tethering technologies.

The location receiver 616 can utilize location technology such as aglobal positioning system (GPS) receiver capable of assisted GPS foridentifying a location of the communication device 600 based on signalsgenerated by a constellation of GPS satellites, which can be used forfacilitating location services such as navigation. The motion sensor 618can utilize motion sensing technology such as an accelerometer, agyroscope, or other suitable motion sensing technology to detect motionof the communication device 600 in three-dimensional space. Theorientation sensor 620 can utilize orientation sensing technology suchas a magnetometer to detect the orientation of the communication device600 (north, south, west, and east, as well as combined orientations indegrees, minutes, or other suitable orientation metrics).

The communication device 600 can use the transceiver 602 to alsodetermine a proximity to a cellular, WiFi, Bluetooth®, or other wirelessaccess points by sensing techniques such as utilizing a received signalstrength indicator (RSSI) and/or signal time of arrival (TOA) or time offlight (TOF) measurements. The controller 606 can utilize computingtechnologies such as a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP),programmable gate arrays, application specific integrated circuits,and/or a video processor with associated storage memory such as Flash,ROM, RAM, SRAM, DRAM or other storage technologies for executingcomputer instructions, controlling, and processing data supplied by theaforementioned components of the communication device 600.

Other components not shown in FIG. 6 can be used in one or moreembodiments of the subject disclosure. For instance, the communicationdevice 600 can include a slot for adding or removing an identity modulesuch as a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card or Universal IntegratedCircuit Card (UICC). SIM or UICC cards can be used for identifyingsubscriber services, executing programs, storing subscriber data, and soon.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and so forth, as used in theclaims, unless otherwise clear by context, is for clarity only anddoesn't otherwise indicate or imply any order in time. For instance, “afirst determination,” “a second determination,” and “a thirddetermination,” does not indicate or imply that the first determinationis to be made before the second determination, or vice versa, etc.

In the subject specification, terms such as “store,” “storage,” “datastore,” data storage,” “database,” and substantially any otherinformation storage component relevant to operation and functionality ofa component, refer to “memory components,” or entities embodied in a“memory” or components comprising the memory. It will be appreciatedthat the memory components described herein can be either volatilememory or nonvolatile memory, or can comprise both volatile andnonvolatile memory, by way of illustration, and not limitation, volatilememory, non-volatile memory, disk storage, and memory storage. Further,nonvolatile memory can be included in read only memory (ROM),programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM),electrically erasable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory cancomprise random access memory (RAM), which acts as external cachememory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available inmany forms such as synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM),synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhancedSDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM).Additionally, the disclosed memory components of systems or methodsherein are intended to comprise, without being limited to comprising,these and any other suitable types of memory.

Moreover, it will be noted that the disclosed subject matter can bepracticed with other computer system configurations, comprisingsingle-processor or multiprocessor computer systems, mini-computingdevices, mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, hand-heldcomputing devices (e.g., PDA, phone, smartphone, watch, tabletcomputers, netbook computers, etc.), microprocessor-based orprogrammable consumer or industrial electronics, and the like. Theillustrated aspects can also be practiced in distributed computingenvironments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices thatare linked through a communications network; however, some if not allaspects of the subject disclosure can be practiced on stand-alonecomputers. In a distributed computing environment, program modules canbe located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

In one or more embodiments, information regarding use of services can begenerated including services being accessed, media consumption history,user preferences, and so forth. This information can be obtained byvarious methods including user input, detecting types of communications(e.g., video content vs. audio content), analysis of content streams,sampling, and so forth. The generating, obtaining and/or monitoring ofthis information can be responsive to an authorization provided by theuser. In one or more embodiments, an analysis of data can be subject toauthorization from user(s) associated with the data, such as an opt-in,an opt-out, acknowledgement requirements, notifications, selectiveauthorization based on types of data, and so forth.

Some of the embodiments described herein can also employ artificialintelligence (AI) to facilitate automating one or more featuresdescribed herein. The embodiments (e.g., in connection withautomatically selecting one or more mobile devices for sharing ofservices) can employ various AI-based schemes for carrying out variousembodiments thereof. Moreover, the classifier can be employed todetermine a ranking or priority of each mobile device involved in thesharing of services. A classifier is a function that maps an inputattribute vector, x=(x1, x2, x3, x4, . . . , xn), to a confidence thatthe input belongs to a class, that is, f(x)=confidence (class). Suchclassification can employ a probabilistic and/or statistical-basedanalysis (e.g., factoring into the analysis utilities and costs) todetermine or infer an action that a user desires to be automaticallyperformed. A support vector machine (SVM) is an example of a classifierthat can be employed. The SVM operates by finding a hypersurface in thespace of possible inputs, which the hypersurface attempts to split thetriggering criteria from the non-triggering events. Intuitively, thismakes the classification correct for testing data that is near, but notidentical to training data. Other directed and undirected modelclassification approaches comprise, e.g., naïve Bayes, Bayesiannetworks, decision trees, neural networks, fuzzy logic models, andprobabilistic classification models providing different patterns ofindependence can be employed. Classification as used herein also isinclusive of statistical regression that is utilized to develop modelsof priority.

As will be readily appreciated, one or more of the embodiments canemploy classifiers that are explicitly trained (e.g., via a generictraining data) as well as implicitly trained (e.g., via observing UEbehavior, operator preferences, historical information, receivingextrinsic information). For example, SVMs can be configured via alearning or training phase within a classifier constructor and featureselection module. Thus, the classifier(s) can be used to automaticallylearn and perform a number of functions, including but not limited todetermining according to predetermined criteria which of the mobiledevices to select for sharing of services.

As used in some contexts in this application, in some embodiments, theterms “component,” “system” and the like are intended to refer to, orcomprise, a computer-related entity or an entity related to anoperational apparatus with one or more specific functionalities, whereinthe entity can be either hardware, a combination of hardware andsoftware, software, or software in execution. As an example, a componentmay be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, aprocessor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution,computer-executable instructions, a program, and/or a computer. By wayof illustration and not limitation, both an application running on aserver and the server can be a component. One or more components mayreside within a process and/or thread of execution and a component maybe localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or morecomputers. In addition, these components can execute from variouscomputer readable media having various data structures stored thereon.The components may communicate via local and/or remote processes such asin accordance with a signal having one or more data packets (e.g., datafrom one component interacting with another component in a local system,distributed system, and/or across a network such as the Internet withother systems via the signal). As another example, a component can be anapparatus with specific functionality provided by mechanical partsoperated by electric or electronic circuitry, which is operated by asoftware or firmware application executed by a processor, wherein theprocessor can be internal or external to the apparatus and executes atleast a part of the software or firmware application. As yet anotherexample, a component can be an apparatus that provides specificfunctionality through electronic components without mechanical parts,the electronic components can comprise a processor therein to executesoftware or firmware that confers at least in part the functionality ofthe electronic components. While various components have beenillustrated as separate components, it will be appreciated that multiplecomponents can be implemented as a single component, or a singlecomponent can be implemented as multiple components, without departingfrom example embodiments.

Further, the various embodiments can be implemented as a method,apparatus or article of manufacture using standard programming and/orengineering techniques to produce software, firmware, hardware or anycombination thereof to control a computer to implement the disclosedsubject matter. The term “article of manufacture” as used herein isintended to encompass a computer program accessible from anycomputer-readable device or computer-readable storage/communicationsmedia. For example, computer readable storage media can include, but arenot limited to, magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk,magnetic strips), optical disks (e.g., compact disk (CD), digitalversatile disk (DVD)), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g.,card, stick, key drive). Of course, those skilled in the art willrecognize many modifications can be made to this configuration withoutdeparting from the scope or spirit of the various embodiments.

In addition, the words “example” and “exemplary” are used herein to meanserving as an instance or illustration. Any embodiment or designdescribed herein as “example” or “exemplary” is not necessarily to beconstrued as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments ordesigns. Rather, use of the word example or exemplary is intended topresent concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, theterm “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive“or”. That is, unless specified otherwise or clear from context, “Xemploys A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusivepermutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both Aand B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoinginstances. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in thisapplication and the appended claims should generally be construed tomean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context tobe directed to a singular form.

Moreover, terms such as “user equipment,” “mobile station,” “mobile,”subscriber station,” “access terminal,” “terminal,” “handset,” “mobiledevice” (and/or terms representing similar terminology) can refer to awireless device utilized by a subscriber or user of a wirelesscommunication service to receive or convey data, control, voice, video,sound, gaming or substantially any data-stream or signaling-stream. Theforegoing terms are utilized interchangeably herein and with referenceto the related drawings.

Furthermore, the terms “user,” “subscriber,” “customer,” “consumer” andthe like are employed interchangeably throughout, unless contextwarrants particular distinctions among the terms. It should beappreciated that such terms can refer to human entities or automatedcomponents supported through artificial intelligence (e.g., a capacityto make inference based, at least, on complex mathematical formalisms),which can provide simulated vision, sound recognition and so forth.

As employed herein, the term “processor” can refer to substantially anycomputing processing unit or device comprising, but not limited tocomprising, single-core processors; single-processors with softwaremultithread execution capability; multi-core processors; multi-coreprocessors with software multithread execution capability; multi-coreprocessors with hardware multithread technology; parallel platforms; andparallel platforms with distributed shared memory. Additionally, aprocessor can refer to an integrated circuit, an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a fieldprogrammable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic controller (PLC), acomplex programmable logic device (CPLD), a discrete gate or transistorlogic, discrete hardware components or any combination thereof designedto perform the functions described herein. Processors can exploitnano-scale architectures such as, but not limited to, molecular andquantum-dot based transistors, switches and gates, in order to optimizespace usage or enhance performance of user equipment. A processor canalso be implemented as a combination of computing processing units.

As used herein, terms such as “data storage,” data storage,” “database,”and substantially any other information storage component relevant tooperation and functionality of a component, refer to “memorycomponents,” or entities embodied in a “memory” or components comprisingthe memory. It will be appreciated that the memory components orcomputer-readable storage media, described herein can be either volatilememory or nonvolatile memory or can include both volatile andnonvolatile memory.

What has been described above includes mere examples of variousembodiments. It is, of course, not possible to describe everyconceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes ofdescribing these examples, but one of ordinary skill in the art canrecognize that many further combinations and permutations of the presentembodiments are possible. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed and/orclaimed herein are intended to embrace all such alterations,modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope ofthe appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes”is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term isintended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as“comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in aclaim.

In addition, a flow diagram may include a “start” and/or “continue”indication. The “start” and “continue” indications reflect that thesteps presented can optionally be incorporated in or otherwise used inconjunction with other routines. In this context, “start” indicates thebeginning of the first step presented and may be preceded by otheractivities not specifically shown. Further, the “continue” indicationreflects that the steps presented may be performed multiple times and/ormay be succeeded by other activities not specifically shown. Further,while a flow diagram indicates a particular ordering of steps, otherorderings are likewise possible provided that the principles ofcausality are maintained.

As may also be used herein, the term(s) “operably coupled to”, “coupledto”, and/or “coupling” includes direct coupling between items and/orindirect coupling between items via one or more intervening items. Suchitems and intervening items include, but are not limited to, junctions,communication paths, components, circuit elements, circuits, functionalblocks, and/or devices. As an example of indirect coupling, a signalconveyed from a first item to a second item may be modified by one ormore intervening items by modifying the form, nature or format ofinformation in a signal, while one or more elements of the informationin the signal are nevertheless conveyed in a manner than can berecognized by the second item. In a further example of indirectcoupling, an action in a first item can cause a reaction on the seconditem, as a result of actions and/or reactions in one or more interveningitems.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and describedherein, it should be appreciated that any arrangement which achieves thesame or similar purpose may be substituted for the embodiments describedor shown by the subject disclosure. The subject disclosure is intendedto cover any and all adaptations or variations of various embodiments.Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments notspecifically described herein, can be used in the subject disclosure.For instance, one or more features from one or more embodiments can becombined with one or more features of one or more other embodiments. Inone or more embodiments, features that are positively recited can alsobe negatively recited and excluded from the embodiment with or withoutreplacement by another structural and/or functional feature. The stepsor functions described with respect to the embodiments of the subjectdisclosure can be performed in any order. The steps or functionsdescribed with respect to the embodiments of the subject disclosure canbe performed alone or in combination with other steps or functions ofthe subject disclosure, as well as from other embodiments or from othersteps that have not been described in the subject disclosure. Further,more than or less than all of the features described with respect to anembodiment can also be utilized.

What is claimed is:
 1. A device comprising: a processing systemincluding a processor; and a memory that stores executable instructionsthat, when executed by the processing system, facilitate performance ofoperations, the operations comprising: obtaining, for each of aplurality of mobile communication devices in a physical vicinity of oneanother, a respective operational capability; selecting, from theplurality of mobile communication devices, a first mobile communicationdevice and a second mobile communication device, the first mobilecommunication device and the second mobile communication device beingselected based at least in part upon a determination that a firstoperational capability of the first mobile communication device isgreater than a second operational capability of the second mobilecommunication device; engaging in wireless communications with the firstmobile communication device, a service being provided to the firstmobile communication device via the wireless communications; sendinginstructions to the first mobile communication device, the instructionsincluding an identifier of the second mobile communication device withwhich the first mobile communication device is to communicate, theinstructions indicating the second operational capability of the secondmobile communication device, the instructions facilitating a processingby the first mobile communication device, the processing by the firstmobile communication device comprising a converting of one or moreaspects of the service into another form usable by the second mobilecommunication device in accordance with the second operationalcapability of the second mobile communication device, the one or moreaspects of the service not being capable of working as well on thesecond mobile communication device in an absence of the converting, andthe instructions facilitating a wireless transmission by the firstmobile communication device to the second mobile communication device ofthe one or more aspects of the service in the another form usable by thesecond mobile communication device.
 2. The device of claim 1, whereinthe operations further comprise selecting the plurality of mobilecommunication devices from among a larger set of mobile communicationdevices such that each mobile communication device of the plurality ofmobile communication devices is within a threshold distance of oneanother.
 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the selecting the pluralityof mobile communication devices from among the larger set of mobilecommunication devices such that each mobile communication device of theplurality of mobile communication devices is within the thresholddistance of one another is based upon determining a respective physicallocation for each of the plurality of mobile communication devices, eachphysical location being determined based upon a respective globalpositioning system (GPS) signal, based upon a respective wirelesstriangulation, or any combination thereof.
 4. The device of claim 1,wherein the operations further comprise selecting the plurality ofmobile communication devices from among a larger set of mobilecommunication devices such that for a single particular one of theplurality of mobile communication devices each other mobilecommunication device of the plurality of mobile communication devices iswithin a threshold distance.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein: thefirst operational capability comprises a first display resolution; thesecond operational capability comprises a second display resolution, thesecond display resolution having been determined as being lower than thefirst display resolution; the another form is in the second displayresolution; and a form in which the one or more aspects of the servicewas in prior to the converting is in the first display resolution. 6.The device of claim 1, wherein the service is a subscription service. 7.The device of claim 6, wherein the subscription service is subscribed toby a subscriber associated with first mobile communication device. 8.The device of claim 1, wherein: the first operational capabilitycomprises a first processing speed; and the second operationalcapability comprises a second processing speed, the second processingspeed having been determined as being lower than the first processingspeed.
 9. The device of claim 1, wherein: the first mobile communicationdevice comprises a first smartphone, a first laptop computer, a firsttablet computer, or any combination thereof; and the second mobilecommunication device comprises a second smartphone, a second laptopcomputer, a second tablet computer, or any combination thereof.
 10. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein: the operations further comprise generatingthe instructions prior to sending the instructions; the firstoperational capability and the second operational capability areobtained from a database; the identifier of the second mobilecommunication device facilitates setting-up communication between thefirst mobile communication device and the second mobile communicationdevice via a wireless ad hoc network; and the identifier is obtainedfrom the database.
 11. A method comprising: engaging, by a mobilecommunication device including a processing system having a processor,in wireless communications with a network; receiving by the mobilecommunication device, via the wireless communications, instructions fromthe network, the instructions including an identifier of another mobilecommunication device within a threshold distance of the mobilecommunication device with which the mobile communication device is tocommunicate, the mobile communication device having an operationalcapability, the instructions indicating another operational capabilityof the another mobile communication device, and the another operationalcapability having been determined as being lower than the operationalcapability; engaging, by the mobile communication device, in a serviceprovided via the wireless communications; executing by the mobilecommunication device, responsive to the instructions, first processingrelated to the service, the first processing resulting in one or moreaspects of the service being performed at the mobile communicationdevice; executing by the mobile communication device, responsive to theinstructions, second processing related to the service, the secondprocessing comprising a converting of the one or more aspects of theservice into another form usable by the another mobile communicationdevice in accordance with the another operational capability of theanother mobile communication device, the one or more aspects of theservice not otherwise being usable by the another mobile communicationdevice in an absence of the converting, and responsive to theinstructions, wirelessly transmitting by the mobile communication deviceto the another mobile communication device the one or more aspects ofthe service in the another form usable by the another mobilecommunication device.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the wirelesslytransmitting facilitates other processing at the another mobilecommunication device resulting in the one or more aspects of the servicein the another form usable by the another mobile communication devicebeing performed at the another mobile communication device.
 13. Themethod of claim 12, wherein: the first processing results in the mobilecommunication device displaying first information on a first displayscreen of the mobile communication device; and the other processingresults in the another mobile communication device displaying secondinformation on a second display screen of the another mobilecommunication device.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein: theoperational capability comprises a first display resolution; the anotheroperational capability comprises a second display resolution, the seconddisplay resolution having been determined as being lower than the firstdisplay resolution; the first information facilitates a first display onthe first display screen, the first display having the first displayresolution; and the other processing facilitates a second display on thesecond display screen, the second display having the second displayresolution.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein: the first displaycomprises media content that is displayed at the first displayresolution; and the second display comprises the media content that isdisplayed at the second display resolution.
 16. The method of claim 11,wherein the service provides statistics regarding a sporting event, andwherein each of the mobile communication device, and the another mobilecommunication device are located at the sporting event.
 17. The methodof claim 11, wherein the service facilitates voting by respective usersof the mobile communication device and the another mobile communicationdevice.
 18. A non-transitory machine-readable medium comprisingexecutable instructions that, when executed by a first mobilecommunication device including a processing system having a processor,facilitate performance of operations, the operations comprising:receiving from a network, via wireless communications, instructionsincluding a plurality of identifiers, one identifier of the plurality ofidentifiers being of a second mobile communication device within athreshold distance of the first mobile communication device with whichthe first mobile communication device is to communicate, anotheridentifier of the plurality of identifiers being of a third mobilecommunication device within the threshold distance of the first mobilecommunication device with which the first mobile communication device isto communicate, the first mobile communication device having a firstoperational capability, the instructions indicating a second operationalcapability of the second mobile communication device, the secondoperational capability having been determined as being lower than thefirst operational capability, the instructions indicating a thirdoperational capability of the third mobile communication device, thethird operational capability having been determined as being lower thanthe first operational capability; engaging in a service provided by thenetwork via the wireless communications; performing, responsive to theinstructions, first processing related to the service, the firstprocessing resulting in one or more aspects of the service beingperformed at the first mobile communication device; performing,responsive to the instructions, second processing related to theservice, the second processing comprising a first converting of the oneor more aspects of the service into a first other form usable by thesecond mobile communication device in accordance with the secondoperational capability of the second mobile communication device, theone or more aspects of the service not otherwise being usable by thesecond communication device in an absence of the first converting;performing, responsive to the instructions, third processing related tothe service, the third processing comprising a second converting of theone or more aspects of the service into a second other form usable bythe third mobile communication device in accordance with the thirdoperational capability of the third mobile communication device, the oneor more aspects of the service not otherwise being usable by the thirdcommunication device in an absence of the second converting;facilitating formation of an ad hoc wireless network with the secondmobile communication device and the third mobile communication device;transmitting via the ad hoc wireless network, to the second mobilecommunication device, first information to facilitate performance by thesecond mobile communication device of the one or more aspects of theservice in the first other form usable by the second mobilecommunication device; and transmitting via the ad hoc wireless network,to the third mobile communication device, second information tofacilitate performance by the third mobile communication device of theone or more aspects of the service in the second other form usable bythe third mobile communication device.
 19. The non-transitorymachine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the first information andthe second information are a same information.
 20. The non-transitorymachine-readable medium of claim 18, wherein: the third operationalcapability having been determined as being lower than the secondoperational capability; the first information and the second informationare different information; and the one or more aspects of the service inthe first other form usable by the second mobile communication deviceare different from the one or more aspects of the service in the secondother form usable by the third mobile communication device.